SchoolsNEXT Competition

As part of their science curriculum, eighth grade students participate in an annual competition: SchoolsNEXT. Sponsored by the Council of Educational Facility Planners International, the SchoolsNEXT competition challenges students to design a learning environment that incorporates the best in environmental and educational practices and technology. Students are given a budget and must research all associated costs, build a 3D model using primarily recycled materials, design plans using computer technology, produce a detailed written report, and give an oral presentation before a panel of judges. The winning eighth grade team’s entry is submitted to the regional contest.
In 2012 and 2013, the winning teams from SMA were state champions and advanced to the Northeast Regional level of competition: